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Origin and history

The Château de la Bien-Assise is a French building erected in the early 19th century, precisely in 1806, on the plans of architect Claude-Nicolas Ledoux. It is located in Guînes, in the department of Pas-de-Calais, and replaces a former seigneurial residence destroyed during the past conflicts. This project was initiated by Charles-François de Guizelin, the first councillor general of the Canton of Guînes, thus marking an architectural and social revival for the region after centuries of unrest.

Before its reconstruction, the site was the scene of major clashes, notably in 1558, when the Duke of Guise stormed the city of Guînes. The original castle, defended by Mylord Gray and a garrison of 1,400 men, including 600 Spanish soldiers, was reduced to ashes by cannons and fires. This event deeply marked local history, leaving ruins that remained in place until the 19th century reconstruction.

In the 20th century, the castle underwent several changes and changes of owners. In 1900, the estate was dismantled and sold, before being bought in 1907 by M. Basset, a tulle manufacturer based in Calais. During the Second World War, in 1944, the castle was requisitioned to accommodate refugees from the surrounding marshes, thus playing a crucial humanitarian role. Finally, in 1951, André Boutoille, already the owner of the land and farm, acquired the castle and restored its unity by creating a tourist centre, perpetuating its historical and cultural heritage.

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